Looking for a beach getaway with a touch of adventure? In this post, I’ll share the coastal gems I discovered in Peru—where desert landscapes meet the Pacific Ocean, and surf-friendly waves, sandy stretches, and local culture create a unique South American beach experience.
Peru’s beaches offer a mix of stunning coastal views, excellent surf, and hidden gems perfect for a unique escape.
😍 If you are in a hurry, I recommend:
Recommended Beaches in Peru:
1. Miraflores
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"Stroll seaside cliffs and enjoy exciting urban sights with ocean views."
Location:
Miraflores Beach, Lima, PeruHighlights:
Want a city-meets-sea experience? Miraflores Beach delivers dramatic coastal views, thrilling surf, and vibrant city energy all in one spot, right along Lima’s iconic cliffs.Recommended For:
Urban beach lovers, surfers, sunset chasers, and foodies.What I Love: ♥
Unmatched ocean-city views, golden sunsets, and the perfect balance of nature and nightlife.- Watch the sun set behind the Pacific, painting the sky in fiery hues.
- Surf the rolling waves that break near the rocky shore—ideal for adventurous beginners and experienced riders alike.
- Relax on the beachfront or wander the clifftop Malecón for panoramic views and public art installations.
Cost:
Free public access; rental fees apply for surfboards and gear.Best time to visit:
December to April for warm summer weather and clear skies; mornings tend to be less crowded.Local tips:
Head to Playa Makaha or Playa Waikiki for surf lessons. Walk up to Larcomar shopping center for upscale dining with ocean views. Evenings are great for romantic strolls or drinks at a nearby rooftop bar.Distance:
About 20 minutes by car from Lima’s historic center and 45 minutes from Jorge Chávez International Airport.How to Get to Miraflores Beach:
From central Lima, follow Av. Arequipa or Av. Pardo south into Miraflores. Head toward the coast and use ramps or stairways down from the cliffs to reach the beach level.2. Playa Roja
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"Admire red sand and explore an unusual beach in the Paracas Reserve."
Location:
Playa Roja, Paracas National Reserve, PeruHighlights:
Looking for otherworldly landscapes? Playa Roja, or “Red Beach,” features rare pink-red sand made from volcanic rock, set against the dramatic cliffs of the Paracas coast—an unforgettable sight for nature lovers and photographers.Recommended For:
Photographers, wildlife watchers, and peaceful nature seekers.What I Love: ♥
The vibrant red sands, rich marine biodiversity, and the tranquil, protected environment of the Paracas Reserve.- Admire the beach’s stunning hues—created by eroded volcanic material from nearby cliffs.
- Spot wildlife such as dolphins, whales, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds along the shore.
- Capture spectacular coastal photos, especially during golden hour and sunset.
Cost:
Included with admission to Paracas National Reserve (approx. 11 soles / ~$3 USD per person).Best time to visit:
April to December for mild temperatures, clear skies, and ideal lighting conditions for photography.Local tips:
Swimming and water sports are not permitted, as the area is environmentally protected. Bring water, sun protection, and a camera—there are no amenities directly on the beach.Distance:
About 30 minutes by car from the town of Paracas; roughly 4 hours from Lima by road.How to Get to Playa Roja:
Enter Paracas National Reserve from the main gate near the town of Paracas. Follow the park’s internal roads and signage to Playa Roja. A short walk from the parking area leads to a clifftop viewpoint and access to the beach.Romantic Beaches in Peru:
3. Playa de la Mina
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"Swim clear waters and relax on an easy coastal escape in summer."
Location:
Playa de la Mina, Paracas National Reserve, PeruHighlights:
Looking for a quiet cove with striking scenery? Playa de la Mina is one of Paracas' hidden gems—ideal for slow beach days, surrounded by cliffs and golden sand, with the occasional visit from lounging sea lions.Recommended For:
Campers, sunbathers, and travelers craving scenic serenity.What I Love: ♥
Towering rock formations, peaceful shores, and the chance to stargaze from your tent right on the sand.- Relax under the sun with a book or nap—this is one of the calmest spots in the reserve.
- Watch for sea lions sunning themselves on distant rocks, especially early or late in the day.
- Camp overnight for a magical beachside experience under a sky full of stars.
Cost:
Included with Paracas National Reserve entry (approx. 11 soles / ~$3 USD per person). Camping is free but basic—no reservations or facilities.Best time to visit:
April to December for pleasant temperatures and lighter crowds. Weekends and Peruvian summer months (January–March) can be busier.Local tips:
Arrive early to claim a good spot and bring all essentials—there are no restaurants or shops nearby. Camping is permitted but pack out everything you bring in. Don't forget warm layers for cool desert nights.Distance:
Around 35 minutes by car from Paracas town; located within Paracas National Reserve.How to Get to Playa de la Mina:
From the Paracas National Reserve entrance, follow marked park roads south past Playa Roja. Playa de la Mina is accessible via a short detour and has a designated parking area above the beach.4. Mancora
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"Surf warm waves and enjoy a fun, affordable beach trip with friends."
Location:
Máncora Beach, Piura Region, Northern PeruHighlights:
Looking for sun, surf, and nightlife? Máncora Beach blends a bohemian vibe with warm waters and a vibrant social scene, making it one of Peru’s most popular beach destinations for young travelers.Recommended For:
Backpackers, surfers, and partygoers who love a lively beach scene.What I Love: ♥
Golden sunshine, warm swimmable water, and a beachfront pulsing with music and good energy.- Surf the Pacific breaks, ideal for beginners and seasoned riders alike.
- Socialize with locals and travelers alike—sunset often turns into impromptu beach parties.
- Taste authentic Peruvian flavors from local restaurants that showcase the region’s seafood and culture.
Cost:
Free public beach access. Food, surfboard rentals, and accommodations range from budget-friendly to upscale.Best time to visit:
December to March for hot weather, warm waters, and a lively high-season atmosphere.Local tips:
Stay in beachfront hostels or eco-lodges to be right in the action. Expect noise at night near central areas—choose a spot slightly south for more peace and quiet.Distance:
About 2 hours by car from Talara Airport (TYL); buses also arrive daily from Piura and Lima.How to Get to Máncora Beach:
From Talara or Piura, travel north via the Panamericana Norte highway. Máncora town is walkable, and the beach is easily accessible from most hotels and hostels.If you are a photographer, don't miss:
5. Punta Sal
My top 5 😎 :
"Sunbathe on soft sand and savor a romantic retreat with tropical vibes."
Location:
Punta Sal, Tumbes Region, Northern PeruHighlights:
Dreaming of a classic tropical escape? Punta Sal is Peru’s answer to Caribbean paradise, featuring soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and graceful palm trees swaying beside luxury beachfront resorts.Recommended For:
Honeymooners, luxury travelers, and families seeking an upscale beach retreat.What I Love: ♥
Picture-perfect shores, calm swimmable seas, and the relaxed luxury of elegant coastal living.- Swim or float in water so warm it feels like a natural spa.
- Whale-watch from shore or book a boat tour—migrating whales are visible in season.
- Unwind at stylish beachfront resorts offering comfort and world-class service.
Cost:
Beach access is free; resort amenities and tours vary by provider.Best time to visit:
June to October for whale watching, or December to March for perfect sunbathing and beach weather.Local tips:
Book resorts in advance during peak seasons. Whale-watching tours often leave early—check with your hotel about scheduling.Distance:
About 2 hours north of Máncora and 3 hours from Tumbes Airport (TBP).How to Get to Punta Sal:
Drive north from Máncora or Talara along the Panamericana Norte. Well-signed entrances lead directly to resort-lined beachfront roads.📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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How much coastline does Peru have?
- Peru boasts over 1,400 miles of coastline, offering an extensive range of beaches to explore.
- With so much space, visitors can enjoy the sea, sun, and sand without ever feeling crowded.
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What is the climate like in Peru’s coastal areas?
- Peru enjoys a tropical climate throughout the country.
- Coastal areas typically experience low amounts of rainfall, making them ideal for beachgoers.
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Is Peru a good destination for a beach vacation?
- Yes! With its vast coastline and excellent weather, Peru is a superb destination for a beach vacation.
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Where can I find information on the best beaches in Peru?
- We’ve gathered key details on the best beaches in Peru for you to explore below.
🌤 Best Time to Visit Peru’s Beaches
- December to March – Best overall time with warm, sunny weather perfect for swimming, surfing, and beach lounging.
- January & February – Peak summer season with lively coastal towns and vibrant local festivals.
- April & November – Pleasant conditions and fewer crowds—ideal for relaxed beach days and scenic views.
- May to October – Cooler, cloudier along the coast but still great for beach walks and surfing in the north.
- Year-Round – Northern beaches like Máncora enjoy warm weather and swimmable waters all year long.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Summer (December-February) – Warm temperatures and perfect beach weather.
Hotel Mancora Beach – A beachfront resort with stunning ocean views.
Enjoy Surfing in Máncora – Experience some of Peru’s best waves and surf schools.
Fall (March-May) – Fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Vichayito Bungalows & Carpas – A unique and luxurious glamping experience by the sea.
Visit Punta Sal – Relax on one of Peru’s most pristine and tranquil beaches.
Winter (June-August) – Cooler but still enjoyable with fewer tourists.
Las Pocitas Beach House – A private and peaceful beachfront stay.
Explore Paracas National Reserve – Discover breathtaking coastal landscapes and wildlife.
Spring (September-November) – Comfortable temperatures and great conditions for water activities.
Hotel Paracas, a Luxury Collection Resort – A high-end stay with world-class amenities.
Take a Boat Tour to the Ballestas Islands – See sea lions, penguins, and diverse marine life.
More travel information and
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